I AM AUSTRALIAN

The rebirth of this classic has seen a resurgence over the past few weeks amidst a global pandemic that is connecting Australians from home-to-home. One could say a hero anthem and source of comfort in tough times. The ballad ‘I Am Australian’ written over four decades ago, co-produced in 1987 by Seekers guitarist Bruce Woodley and Dobe Newton of The Bushwackers, has been performed and remixed for everything from drought appeals to bush fire fundraisers over many years in times of need and hardship as a symbol of Australian community and national consciousness. Often cited alongside Waltzing Matilda as Australia’s “unofficial anthem”, the words and music captures the soul of Australia from pre-white settlement and recognises what followed evoking Aussie themes and identities like Indigenous Artists Albert Namatjira and outlaw Ned Kelly.

Today this empowering ballad has found renewed popularity after dozens of Australians recorded themselves singing the tune in home isolation as the COVID-19 pandemic swept the globe. The crowd-sourced ABC video has since had millions of views and thousands of shares, which has signified an overwhelming sense of pride as the Australian community from backyards to bedrooms express ‘togetherness’ despite the struggle and feeling of isolation. It’s emotional, raw and honest, providing a sense of connection and belonging…who we are as a nation, standing strong and together we’ll make it!

What makes the remix even more powerful is the opening lyrics translated in Yawuru Language. The Yawuru people are the traditional owners of the lands and waters in and around Rubibi (the town of Broome) from Bangarangara to the yalimban (south) to Wirrjinmirr (Willie Creek) to the guniyan (north), and banu (east) covering Roebuck Plains and Thangoo pastoral leases, in the Kimberley region of northern Western Australia.

Yawuru is an endangered language and has been the focus of NBY’s cultural maintenance at the Mabu Yawuru Ngan-ga Yawuru Language Centre. Language specialists have developed resources and innovative solutions that are revitalising the language and training Yawuru people to teach and share the language.  Broome primary schools (up to 1500 children) have Yawuru language programs and it is becoming more familiar with the broader community, increasing respect and understanding for the language and culture of the Yawuru people. The Mabu Yawuru Ngan-ga Language Centre can assist you with any language translations or queries about language usage for public events or publications.  Looking for more information or wish to connect with the Mabu Yawuru Ngan-ga Language Centre, please visit their website for more information at www.yawuru.org.au